ACE seniors serve community

Special to Bluffton TodayAs part of their community service projects, English IV students at the Beaufort-Jasper Academy for Career Excellence collect clothes, shoes, baby apparel, and books to donate to Goodwill prior to graduating.

Special to Bluffton TodaySeniors in Colleen Franks' English IV class bucked off their senioritis to perform community service projects in May.

SPECIAL TO BLUFFTON TODAY

While most seniors were trying on that ceremonial cap and gown or planning their post-graduation parties, Beaufort-Jasper Academy for Career Excellence seniors enrolled in English IV chose community service projects. English teacher Carleen Franks served as an advisor, while each class organized and executed their projects.

"We want to make a difference," said Travis Toeniessen, graduated senior and Skills USA winner.

The Ronald McDonald House and Goodwill were among the charities students chose to support. Other charitable help was given through a campaign called "Yes, we CAN," an effort where English IV students recycled more than 260 soda cans during May. Students also recycled more than 502 plastic bottles. The "Let's Keep Tabs" community service effort, executed during the same time by seniors, benefited the Ronald McDonald House Charity. Students pulled and collected more than 2,181 soda tabs for this charity. Finally, students donated more than $500 worth of clothes, shoes, baby apparel, and books to Goodwill on May 20.

As the days drew closer to graduation students remain focused. "We never really experienced 'Senioritis,'" said Jasmine Femia. "On the first day of our English IV class we knew we would have to work hard all year. Working hard to help our communities and working together as a class.... I think that's a great way to end senior year."